Kenya: Sexual Violence Marred Elections

Prosecute Sexual Crimes; Address Victims’ Needs

*** Video will be available on December 14, 2017***(Nairobi, December 14, 2017) – Widespread sexual violence marred Kenya's 2017 elections, Human Rights Watch said in a report released today. The Kenyan government should urgently take steps to protect both women and girls, and men and boys from sexual violence.The report, "'They Were Men in Uniform,' Sexual Violence against Women and Girls in Kenya's 2017 Elections," documents the devastating physical, mental, social, and economic impact of gender-based violence and serious human rights abuses surrounding the recent elections. Human Rights Watch found that the government failed to prevent election-related sexual violence, properly investigate cases, hold attackers accountable, and ensure that survivors have access to comprehensive, quality, and timely post-rape care. Many attacks were by security forces, survivors said.